The Laker/Lutz News

Serving Pasco since 1981/Serving Lutz since 1964

Local News

San Antonio Rotary goes to the market

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The Rotary Club of San Antonio is getting a fresh start on a popular trend – the farmers market.

The nonprofit will host its first San Antonio Farmers Market on Jan. 14 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., at the San Antonio City Park, at 32810 Pennsylvania Ave.

In the future, the farmers market will be held every second Saturday of the month, at the same time and place.

“It will be really festive,” said Winnie Burke, the club’s president.

The market will offer fresh produce, yard art, baked goods and more. Local musicians will entertain. Rotary club volunteers will sell hot dogs and popcorn.

Wines from Brooksville vineyards will be sold, but Burke said a city alcohol ban in the park, means “it’s not for drinking in the park.”

The seed for the farmers market sprouted after a local produce stand on State Road 52 shut down.

“People were telling us they wanted a place to buy produce,” said Burke. “It grew from there.”

The second Saturday was chosen so as not to compete with Dade City’s farmers market, Burke added.

The rotary club has a loyal group of about 15 volunteers, who will organize the monthly event.

“Our club is pretty small,” Burke said. “But, we try to be active.”

Rotarian fundraisers help support local charities and community projects including playground equipment at the city park. The club also supports a girls’ mentoring program and food giveaways to area schools.

The Rotary Club of San Antonio was founded in 2005, and is one of eight clubs in east Pasco County.

Rotarians are governed by Rotary International, which has about 1.2 million members in 32,000 clubs in 200 countries and geographic areas, according to the international organization’s website.

To reserve a vendor space – for $25 a day – contact Burke at (352) 437-5161 or .

Published January 11, 2017

 

Check out information, and fun, at local libraries

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A new year always offers a fresh chance to become more disciplined, learn new things, explore new hobbies and have more fun.

All that, and more, awaits visitors to local libraries.

One of the creatures that Stacy Dunn, an animal educator from Pinellas County Reptiles, brought to a show at New River Branch Library last June. She had a crowd of about 90 people hanging on her every word during the reptile show.
(File)

Besides a vast collection of books, CDs, DVDs and digital offerings, libraries host scores of events every month.

So, depending on your interests or your needs, you can often find just what you’re seeking at the library — for free.

And, if not at your local library, chances are you can find it at a library in a nearby community.

So, whether it’s learning more about Medicare, camellias, cooking or crafts — there are libraries in northern Hillsborough County, and east and central Pasco County, offering classes or events on topics like these and more.

Maybe you’re a gamer, or a movie buff. Libraries have free game nights and free movies, too.

A photo of 2nd Lt. Phil Rasmussen shows the airplane pilot in his pajamas with a pistol strapped around his waist. Rasmussen shot down a Japanese Zero during the attack on Pearl Harbor.

You can be a hands-on type, or a listener; someone brand new to a pursuit, or someone who knows what’s what. Regardless of your personality type or interests, you likely can locate a library that is offering what you’re hoping to find.

Here’s a look at just a few of the selections available at your local libraries through the end of January.

For future months, visit HCPLC.org to find out more of what’s happening in Hillsborough County libraries or PascoLibraries.org to find out about more offerings in Pasco County libraries.

What’s happening in northern Hillsborough County libraries

Austin Davis Public Library, 17808 Wayne Road in Odessa
Jan. 18, 1:15 p.m.: Wee Artists: Arts and crafts for preschoolers and their caregivers.

Jan. 24, 1:15 p.m.: Motion Commotion: This 30-minute program incorporates music, literacy and fitness for the whole family. Recommended for children ages 2 to 5.

Jan. 30, 6:30 p.m.: Adult Tech Bytes: Did you get a new electronic device over the holidays? Discover the library’s large selection of e-books, audiobooks and more. Upload free apps from the library. Those attending must have a working email address and wireless capabilities on their devices.

Jimmie B. Keel Regional Library, 2902 W. Bearss Ave., Tampa
Jan. 13, 4 p.m.: Knitting for beginners
Jan. 14, 10:15 a.m.: English practice at Conversation Corner
Jan. 14, 2 p.m.: Introduction to 3D Printing
Jan. 21, 2 p.m.: Introduction to 3D Modeling with Tinker CAD
Jan. 25, 4 p.m.: Art after school
Jan. 28, 2 p.m.:3D Scanning with 123D Catch
Jan. 31, 4:30 p.m.: Storytelling workshop

Lutz Branch Library, 101 W. Lutz Lake Fern Road
Jan. 17, 4 p.m.: E-books for Tablets and Smartphones

Jan. 28, 3 p.m.: Super Science: Pirate Polly and her parrot, Crackers, will lead a pirate-themed program featuring science, technology, engineering and mathematics. Recommended for children in kindergarten through fifth grade and their families.

New Tampa Branch Library, 10001 Cross Creek Blvd., Tampa
Jan. 12, 3 p.m.: How to Write a Resume

Jan. 12, 6 p.m.: Yoga for Well-Being

Jan. 17, 10 a.m.: Do you love to knit or crochet? Bring a project, and meet new people in this sit and stitch program. Beginners welcome. Bring your own supplies.

Jan. 17, 3 p.m.: Pig Out on Reading: Daisy the pig, along with Farmer and Mrs. Minor, will visit the library with stories about the pampered swine’s life. For ages 2 to 6.

Jan. 24, 3 p.m.: Intro to Cybersecurity: A beginner’s guide

What’s happening at East and Central Pasco County libraries

Hugh Embry Branch Library, 14215 Fourth St., Dade City
Jan. 13 and Jan. 14, 11 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.: Friends of Hugh Embry Used Book Sale

Jan. 18, 1:30 p.m.: Learn how to become a Guardian Ad Litem volunteer

Jan. 18, 6:30 p.m.: Astronomer Ken Manning presents “When Celestial Bodies Collide: Eclipses & Other Phenomenon”

Jan. 24, 2 p.m.: In honor of Holocaust Remembrance Day, Roslyn Franken, author of “Meant to Be: A True Story of Might, Miracles and Triumph of the Human Spirit,” will present an inspirational program based on her book.

Jan. 26, 4 p.m.: Coder DoJo Jr.: For grades six through 12. Javascript and more coding club. Bring your email address and password.

Land O’ Lakes Branch Library, 2818 Collier Parkway, Land O’ Lakes
Jan. 14, 2 to 4 p.m.: An introduction to tools for junior woodworkers, ages 9 through 15

Jan. 21, 10 a.m.: Turning 65: Medicare assistance: The purpose of the program is to educate elders regarding Medicare insurance.

Jan. 28, 10 a.m.: Sylvia’s Kitchen: Participants will make chocolate-covered creations, ages 13 and up.

Jan. 28, 2 p.m.: Pre-teen jewelry: Making Pop Tab People, ages 9 through 15

New River Branch, 34043 State Road 54, Zephyrhills
Jan. 17, 2 p.m.: Learn about camellias from a master gardener
Jan. 19, 11 a.m.: Medicare 101: Get answers to your Medicare enrollment questions.
Jan. 19, 6:30 p.m.: Want to learn about gardening? Attend the community garden meeting.
Jan. 21, 5 p.m. to 9 p.m.: After-hours community gaming night. Participants will play a wide array of board games, including such classics as Monopoly and Scrabble.

Zephyrhills Public Library, 5347 Eighth St., Zephyrhills
Jan. 12: 9:45 a.m.: Career Source Mobile One: Job Search and Career Assistance: Job seekers will find help in searching for work, writing and printing resumes, and finding out about resources that can help them in their quest for employment.

Jan. 12, 6 p.m.: Lawyer in the library: Attorney Bret Galbraith will field questions on small business issues.

Jan. 18, 1 p.m.: AARP Seminar: Fraud Prevention: Learn how to protect yourself from ID theft and to protect yourself from scams.

Jan. 25, 11:30 a.m.: Cookbook Book Club: If you love to eat, love to learn new recipes and enjoy meeting new people, this club is for you.

Jan. 28, 9:30 a.m.: I Quit — Smoking Cessation. Learn strategies for quitting all forms of tobacco in a friendly and supportive setting.

Published January 11, 2017

Resolve to have fun in 2017

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Maybe 2017 is the year that you’re going to have more fun.

But, perhaps you want to improve planning your activities, and to get a better handle on your spending, too.

The Laker/Lutz News is here to help.

Whether you’re new to area, or have lived here for decades, this guide is intended to help you plan fun activities for you and your family, without breaking the bank.

January
Raising Cane, a sweet & spicy event
When: Jan. 14, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Where: Pioneer Florida Museum & Village, 15602 Pioneer Museum Road, Dade City
How much: Admission: $5 per person
Details: Cane syrup making, cane syrup competition, chili cook-off, salsa competition, greased pole climbing, iron skillet toss, entertainment and vendors

This blues band is keeping the crowd entertained at the Pigz in Z’Hills BBQ & Blues fest. (File Photos)

Seventh annual Pigs in Z’Hills BBQ & Blues
When: Jan 21, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Where: 5200 Airport Road, at the new community venue
How much: Free admission; $10 parking
Details: Mouth-watering barbecue, blues music, classic car show, aircraft displays, World War II museum, beer and wine, gift vendors, business showcase, kids zone and more
For information, call (813) 782-1913, or visit ZephyrhillsChamber.org.

 

12th annual Suncoast Arts Fest
When: Jan. 21, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.; Jan. 22, 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Where: The Shops at Wiregrass, 28211 Paseo Drive, Wesley Chapel
How much: Free admission and parking
Details: More than 125 fine artists and craftsmen; live entertainment; emerging artist booth, featuring work of area middle and high school students; street painting; roaming entertainers; and, free art projects for the kids

Dade City’s annual Kumquat Festival
When: Jan. 28, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Where: Downtown Dade City
How much: Admission and parking are free; free shuttles for satellite lots
What: Local entertainment, antique cars, arts and crafts, activities for kids, vendors, health and wellness, kumquat pies, kumquat products, quilt challenge and more
Several events are held leading up to the festival, visit DadeCityChamber.org for information.

February
Farm Fest & Quilt Show
When: Feb. 4, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. and Feb. 5, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Where: Florida Pioneer Museum & Village,15602 Pioneer Museum Road, Dade City
How much: $10 per day, or $15 for both days.
What: Draft horse pull on Feb. 4 at 10 a.m. and 1 p.m. (Bring your own lawn chair, limited seating); quilt show, activities, music and more
For information, visit PioneerFloridaMuseum.org.

Florida Ranch Days
When: Feb. 11 and Feb. 12
Where: Little Everglades Ranch, 17951 Hamilton Road, Dade City
How much: Free admission; parking, $10 for cars and $25 for RVs
Details: Live entertainment on multiple stages; guided ranch tours on hay wagons; swamp buggy rides; trading post; food roundup; children’s area; and more
For information, visit RanchDays.com.

Third annual Snowbird Palooza
When: Feb. 11, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Where: Zephyr Park, 38116 Fifth Ave., Zephyrhills
How much: Free parking and free admission
Details: Entertainment, speakers, coffee and donuts social, Bingo tent, live magician, art classes and more
For information, email .s.

Pasco County Fair
When: Feb. 20 to Feb. 26
Where: Pasco County Fairgrounds, 36722 State Road 52, Dade City
Details: Midway, fair food, entertainment, competitions
For a schedule of events, admission charge and other information, visit PascoCountyFair.com.

March
Flea Market at the Old Lutz School
When: March 3 and March 4
Where: The Old Lutz School, 18819 U.S. 41 N.
How much: Admission is free.
Details: Thousands of items for sale to generate funds for causes supported by the GFWC Lutz-Land O’ Lakes Woman’s Club.

Second annual Land O’ Lakes Music Fest
When: March 11, noon to 8 p.m.
Where: Land O’ Lakes Community Center, 5401 Land O’ Lakes Blvd.
How much: Early bird $10 general admission, $15 at the gate; Early bird $25 reserved seating, $30 at the gate; $5 parking.
Details: Live music, car show, bounce houses, obstacle course, video games, food and drink vendors, business and arts & crafts showcase. No outside food or coolers allowed. Event will be held, rain or shine.

Founders’ Day Parade in Zephyrhills
When: March 11, 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Where: Main Street Zephyrhills District
How much: Free admission
Details: A parade to celebrate Founders’ Day in Zephyrhills. This year’s theme is classic board games.
For information, visit MSZI.org.

Savage Race
When: March 18 and March 19
Where: 17951 Hamilton Road, Dade City
Details: Twenty-five obstacles, mud in your underwear, chip timing, T-shirt, beer, action photos, camaraderie, memories
For information, visit SavageRace.com.

Dogs Day in Dade City
When: March 18, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Where: Agnes Lamb Park, in downtown Dade City
Details: Dog wagon parade, dog costume contest, canine got talent, ice cream/yogurt eating contest and more

Zephyrhills Pie Festival
When: March 25, 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Where: 38116 Fifth Ave., Zephyrhills
How much: Free admission and parking; $10 all-you-can-eat pie buffet, from noon until 3 p.m.
Details: Pie bakers and vendors, slices of pie and whole pies for sale; pie-eating contests, a pie buffet, local business showcase, kids’ area, DJ entertainment and other activities

Gran Fondo Florida
When: March 26, start time 8 a.m.
Where: San Antonio
Details: Bicycle road race through the rolling hills of Dade City and San Antonio. Cyclists can choose to ride three distances: 30 miles, 60 miles or 100 miles, and are timed on certain stretches of the race.For information, visit GranFondoNationalChampionshipSeries.com.

April
Jelly Bean Fling
When: April 8, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Where: 15602 Pioneer Museum Road, Dade City
Details: Easter bunny, Easter bonnet parade, egg hunt, face painting, bounce house and more
For information, visit PioneerFloridaMuseum.org.

Easter Sunrise Service
Where: Florida Hospital Zephyrhills, 7050 Gall Blvd., Zephyrhills
When: April 16, 6:45 a.m. to 7:45 a.m.
How much: Free admission
Details: Live Christian music, an inspirational message, a live dove release and free refreshments. Seating is limited and lawn chairs are encouraged.

 

 

 

 

Wesley Chapel Boat Show
When: April 21 to April 23
Where: The Shops at Wiregrass, 28211 Paseo Drive, Wesley Chapel
For information, visit TheShopsatWiregrass.com.

June
Third Annual Zephyrhills SummerFest
Where: Zephyr Park, 38116 Fifth Ave., Zephyrhills
When: June 24, 4 p.m. to 9 p.m.
How much: Free admission, free parking
Details: Live entertainment; bounce houses, slides, a rock wall, trampoline and other kids’ activities; vendor village of arts & crafters; pet friendly; fireworks at sunset
For information, contact .

July
What: Lutz Fourth of July
When: July 4, parade starts at 10 a.m. (There’s a race and other festivities before and after the parade). More details will be available closer to the event.
Where: Downtown Lutz, near the Train Depot
How much: Admission and parking are free.

November
29th annual Florida Bug Jam
When: Nov. 11 and Nov. 12
Where: Pasco County Fairgrounds, 36722 State Road 52, Dade City
For details, visit FloridaBugJam.com.

 

 

 

December
Lutz Arts & Crafts Show
When: Dec. 2 and Dec. 3|
Where: Keystone Preparatory High School, 18105 Gunn Highway in Odessa
Details: Hundreds of arts and crafts vendors and food booths in an annual show that draws tens of thousands of shoppers

Christmas in the Park
When: Traditionally held on the first Sunday in December
Where: City Park, 12202 Main St., in downtown San Antonio
How much: Free admission, free refreshments
Details: Annual lighting of giant Christmas cards, old-fashioned carol singing and other nostalgic touches.

Tampa Tour de Clay
When: Dec. 9 and Dec. 10
Where: Stops at area pottery studios
How much: The tour is free.
Details: Those making the tour will have the chance to watch kiln openings, talk with nationally known ceramic artists and perhaps do a bit of shopping.
For details, visit TampaTourDeClay.com.

Church Street Christmas
When: Traditionally held on select dates in December
Where: Historic Church Avenue in Dade City
How much: Admission is free
Details: Enjoy carolers, musicians and other entertainers along a street where the sidewalks are lit by luminaries and the houses are brilliantly decorated.

Old Lutz School Christmas House
When: Traditionally held on select dates in December
Where: 18819 U.S. 41 N.
How much: Free admission; donations of toys and nonperishable foods are encouraged
For details, visit OldLutzSchool.com.

Festival of Lights on Main Street
When: Traditionally held on the first Saturday in December
Where: On Fifth Avenue, from Seventh to 10th streets in downtown Zephyrhills
How much: Admission is free
Details: The event includes food, entertainment, holiday activities and a Christmas parade.

REGIONAL EVENTS
These events are beyond The Laker/Lutz News coverage area, but may be of interest to our readers.

Gasparilla Parade of Pirates
When: Jan. 28, 2 p.m. to 5:30 p.m.
Where: The parade goes from Bay to Bay and Bayshore boulevards, and continues on a route through downtown Tampa, ending at Cass Street and Ashely Drive. (People begin gathering hours before the parade begins; parking can be difficult to find).
Details: The parade includes 130 units, including floats, marching bands, pirates and more.

Florida State Fair
When: Feb. 9 through Feb. 20
Where: Florida State Fairgrounds, 4800 U.S. 301 N.
Details: Fair foods, midway, entertainment, competitions
For information, visit FloridaStateFair.com.

Bay Area Renaissance Festival
When: Weekends, Feb. 18 through April 2
Where: 11315 N. 46th St., Tampa
How much: $17.95 adults, $9.95 children; free parking
Details: Step back to medieval times, with live jousting, and old time foods and shops.
For information, visit BayAreaRenFest.com.

Strawberry Festival
When: March 2 through March 12
Where: 303 N. Lemon St., Plant City
Details: Strawberry shortcake, entertainment, festival rides, contests, fair foods, competitions and more.
For information, visit FlStrawberryFestival.com.

Chasco Fiesta
When: March 24 through April 1
Where: Downtown New Port Richey
Details: Chasco Fiesta is a nine-day festival with events ranging from a Native American Pow Wow, to a street parade, to a boat parade to shows, a carnival, a fiesta and more.
For information, visit ChascoFiesta.com.

Florida Blueberry Festival
When: April 22, 10 a.m. to 8 p.m., and April 23, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Where: Historic downtown Brooksville
How much: $10 for adults (over 18); $5 for ages 13 to 17; free for those 12 and under; $5 in designated parking areas. The event is pet friendly.
Details: Entertainment, fresh blueberries, kids zone, arts and crafts, beer, wine, food and more
For information, visit FloridaBlueberryFestival.org.

Tampa Bay International Dragon Boat Races
When: April 29, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Where: Contachobee Fort Brooke Park, 601 Old Water St., Tampa Bay
Details: Rowing teams compete
For information, visit PanamDragonBoat.com, and click on “Events.”

GeckoFest
When: Sept. 2, 10 a.m. to 10 p.m.
Where: 3101 Beach Blvd. S., Gulfport
Details: The theme of the 17th annual GeckoFest will be Geckostock, a celebration of the 1969 Woodstock Festival, as was hippies and the “Peace and Love” generation.

Published January 4, 2017

Saying ‘No’ to New Year’s resolutions

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The time has come, tradition says, for all of us to take stock of our lives and, having properly weighed the whole sorry mess, resolve to make much-needed improvements.

Or not.

Mostly not.

According to a survey conducted by the Saint Leo Polling Institute, scarcely more than one in four adults planned to make New Year’s resolutions — just 27 percent.

Victor Wallington hasn’t made a New Year’s resolution since the one he made about 20 years ago, when he successfully stopped smoking.
(Tom Jackson/Photos)

Maybe it had something to do with when the calls were made, the four days beginning Nov. 27 — the Sunday after Thanksgiving. Given Americans’ short attention spans, that is weeks before most of us would even think about whether we should commit to a new lifestyle regime.

After all, a week before the election, 10 percent of American adults hadn’t settled on their preferred choice for president. So, maybe the poll suffered from bad timing.

Or, maybe it was something else altogether. Maybe three out of four of us really are content to muddle along the way we did in 2016. Or, maybe we have been discouraged by previous attempts that unraveled before Super Bowl Sunday.

If the three-out-of-four statistic is a good one, then those in the business of slinging words have lately been targeting a jarringly slender audience. Who knew?

More than weight lost, gyms joined, self-improvement books bought, time better organized or investments made, what New Year’s resolutions inspire most are ‘listicles’ — that is, articles comprised of lists. These are actual headlines.

“Four steps to get over the New Year’s resolutions you didn’t accomplish this year.” (Verily)

“Five people getting even richer off your New Year’s resolutions.” (Marketwatch)

“Six New Year’s resolutions that will give your dating life a boost.” (Verily)

“Seven secrets of people who keep their New Year’s resolutions.” (Forbes)

“Eight ways to keep New Year’s resolutions about money.” (Forbes)

“10 must-know tips for achieving New Year’s resolutions.” (Huffington Post)

“10 New Year’s resolutions for your wallet.” (Christian Science Monitor)

“11 New Year’s resolutions for grown-a** ’90s kids.” (Bustle)

I could go on, but you get the idea.

In short, if you are the sort who thinks a blank calendar presents endless opportunity for real life-improving change, there is no shortage of advice about how you might, or should, go about the task.

The long and short of it, as laid out by Saint Leo University assistant professor of psychology’s Scot Hamilton, is to be realistic. The best way to do that, he says, is avoid staking your success to the end result.

“So the adage of just a little better each day, or a little less each day,” is the correct approach, Hamilton advises. It’s like the riddle: How do you eat an elephant? One bite at a time.

Wendy and David Hevia don’t make New Year’s resolutions, instead they set goals for themselves that don’t coincide with the calendar.

Another Hamilton recommendation: One way to prolong keeping to a resolution is to allow yourself the occasional old-habit indulgence. Consider the good you’ve done to that point as equity in your project. If your discipline is generally good, you can backslide now and again “knowing that you’re not back to square one.”

It’s precisely that temptation to backslide, conjuring the specter of failure— not contentment with our lives as they are — most cite for not committing to a resolution.

Accordingly, “I don’t call them New Year’s resolutions,” says Wendy Hevia. “I call it a ‘reset.’” Along those lines, 50-somethings Wendy and husband David, who own and operate three Kiefer Jewelers shops (Lutz, Brandon and the original in Dade City), have pledged to adopt a new eating regime — specifically the Whole 30 Program — in time for New Year’s Day.

But, it’s not a resolution, David says. “We have goals, not resolutions.” Among them, get into better shape, work more efficiently, and, to avoid the stress of being stretched too thin, learn — as billionaires do — to say “No.”

I know what you’re thinking. But, lest you waddle down that if-it-looks-like-a-duck-and-quacks-like-a-duck New Year’s resolution path, know this: “We are not committed to getting to all of this in 2017,” David says, “or beginning right with the start of the new year.”

Except for that new eating plan, anyway. So, yeah.

Around the corner up Collier Parkway, 61-year-old Victor Wallington is also skipping the New Year’s resolution game. Not because he isn’t a believer. One of his most cherished life changes — quitting smoking — began on a New Year’s Day about 20 years ago.

Now the retired Detroit emergency technician, who defines effervescence, lives in Wesley Chapel, works in the cart barn at the recently reopened Plantation Palms Golf Course, and counts his blessings.

Declaring he’s “had an absolutely wonderful life — thank God for that,” Wallington is committed only to “take each day as it comes.”

For the skeptics forming a super-majority, that’s not just one way to have a successful New Year’s resolution. It might be the best.

Tom Jackson, a resident of New Tampa, is interested in your ideas. To reach him, email .

Published January 4, 2017

School board seeks higher impact fees

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Pasco County School Board members are asking the Pasco County Commission to significantly boost school impact fees charged against new residential construction.

The board voted on Dec. 20 to seek impact fees of $9,174 for single-family detached residences; $3,693 for single-family attached residences; $5,382 for multi-family dwellings; and $5,634 for mobile homes.

New home construction in the Wiregrass Ranch area, and in other communities, is causing enrollments to rise in area schools.
(File Photos)

That compares to the current rates of $4,876.28 for single-family detached; $1,757.40 for single-family attached; $1,873.55 for multifamily; and, $2,871.43 for mobile homes.

In Pasco County, a school impact fee is assessed on the builder for the construction of every new home with the exception of 55 and older communities.

The theory behind impact fees is that new growth should pay for itself, instead of increasing the burden on existing residents.

Pasco County’s school impact fees have not increased since 2005, but continued residential growth in the county is generating increased student enrollment. The county initially adopted impact fees in 2001.

The new rates being proposed now are based on an impact fee study commissioned by the school board. The analysis was conducted by Tischler Bise, a consulting firm based in Bethesda, Maryland.

“We have a new impact fee study that is recommending that we impose a larger fee on housing construction in Pasco County,” Ray Gadd, deputy superintendent said, during the board’s Dec. 20 meeting.

“We’re in a county that’s in a very high-growth trend,” Gadd said.

“As you well know, from Wesley Chapel to Trinity and up (U.S.) Highway 41, the building industry in Pasco County is exploding,” he added.

Carson Bise, president of the Tischler Bise, who addressed the board also had held an impact fee workshop with board members before the evening meeting.

Wiregrass Elementary School opened in August to help relieve crowding in nearby schools. Pasco County Schools can’t build schools fast enough to accommodate the district’s increasing enrollment.

At the evening session, Bise said, “We’ve made some, what we think are rather conservative projections of students over the next five- to 10 years, based on the most recent building permit trend.

“However, I would argue that that building permit trend is likely to increase in the future.

“Just with this conservative growth estimate, we estimate over 5,200 new students over the next five years and almost 10,500 students over the next 10 years,” he said.

“To give you a better flavor, the average annual increase of students over the last four years has been about 1,400, and this year’s increase in new students was over 1,800.

“We expect this growth trend to continue.

“The district’s response to this growth, in addition to the two new schools that you have opening next year, which is Cypress Creek (Middle/High) and Bexley (Elementary), the district also has plans to open four additional schools over the next 10 years, which would add approximately 6,500 student seats.

“The cost of those schools is estimated at $196 million. So, it’s clear that substantial revenue is needed to fund the growth-related capacity,” Bise said.

The district doesn’t have enough money to pay for anticipated growth, the consultant added.

Increased revenues from impact fees could be used to build new schools, add capacity to existing schools, purchase buses, furniture and fixtures.

The school board cannot increase the fees because that authority rests with the Pasco County Commission, Bise said.

Pasco County Commission Chairman Mike Moore said the commission has not yet received a formal request to increase school impact fees from the school board.

He said he is willing to look at the issue and wants to form a committee.

Moore said he thinks the impact fee committee should be appointed by both the commission and the school board, and should have representatives from the housing industry, as well as parents.

He would like that committee to come up with a recommendation.

Moore also wants commissioners to have the opportunity to ask questions of the consultant who recommended the proposed increases.

The commission chairman also wants to find out more about the history of school impact fees in Pasco, as well as what the other sources of school funding are and how they are used.

He thinks that the issue is important enough that commissioners should consider having a workshop on the topic, to ensure they have enough time for questions and discussion.

Published January 4, 2017

Pasco wants more state funding

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Pasco County commissioners have approved a list of local priorities for the 2017 legislative session, seeking to add state funds to the county’s coffers.

Commissioners want more state money for road construction, storm water improvements, efforts to fight blight and help the homeless population, and other projects.

The list of county priorities is expected to be presented to the local legislative delegation before the next session begins on March 7.

Members of the public also will have a chance to let the delegation know their priorities at a delegation meeting on Jan. 18 at Sunlake High School in Land O’ Lakes.

Members of Pasco County’s legislative delegation are Rep. Richard Corcoran, who will serve as speaker of the house; Rep. Amber Mariano; Rep. Danny Burgess; Sen. Wilton Simpson; Sen. Jack Latvala; and, Sen. Tom Lee.

The local delegation meeting is held each year before the Florida Legislature convenes. Committee meetings in advance of the 2017 session began in early December.

About 100 people attended last year’s delegation meeting, with individuals and organizations pitching for projects or legislative bills.

The Pasco County Commission’s priority list includes:

  • $15 million in state money for the Interstate 75 at Overpass Road/New Interstate Interchange
  • $1 million for a “navigation center” for the homeless population, with a focus on shelter, jobs and education
  • $2.5 million for stormwater mitigation through culvert repairs
  • $5 million revolving loan for the Pasco Prosperity Program to help small business owners in blighted areas along corridors such as U.S. 19, U.S. 41 and U.S. 301.

Pasco County Commissioner Kathryn Starkey said the prosperity program can help business owners spruce up their properties with upgraded signage, landscaping or “whatever it takes.”

Owners sometimes don’t have the funds to make improvements to their businesses, Starkey said. “I’m trying to give the small business owner a leg up. I see this as a key. I hope we can get this done,” she said.
Requests that make it into the state’s budget will be scrutinized by Gov. Rick Scott, who can use his line item veto to slash specific projects.

Last year, Scott cut about $256 million in local requests statewide from a budget of about $82 billion. Pasco had winners and losers.

Among the winners was the STEM aeronautics academy at Sunlake High School and other locations, with $750,000 in state funds; and, the Baldomero Lopez State Veterans Nursing Home in Land O’ Lakes, with $450,000. The county also got $400,000 for a storm water project.

But, Scott also eliminated an $11 million request for a proposed performing arts center at Pasco-Hernando State College.

Those who lobby on behalf of Pasco budget requests are likely to face challenges.

Estimates for the next state budget show a potential shortfall of about $3 billion.

“It’s going to be tough this year,” predicted Ralph Lair, the county’s governmental affairs officer.

What: Legislative delegation meeting, open to the public
When: Jan. 18 from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m.
Where: Sunlake High School, 3023 Sunlake Blvd., Land O’ Lakes
Signup: If you want to speak at the meeting, complete an e-form by following the link – http://bit.ly/2gVEmxW. The deadline for submissions is Jan. 16.

Revised Jan. 4, 2017

Piano enthusiast opens Lutz store

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Michael Pratt never owned a piano as an adolescent.

He now owns a shop full of them.

Last month, the 45-year-old Pratt opened Picarzo Pianos, 23916 State Road 54 in Lutz.

Michael Pratt opened Picarzo Pianos in December. Located off of State Road 54, the Lutz shop offers upright and grand pianos made by both Hailun and Steinway.
(Kevin Weiss/Staff Photos)

As one of the few piano dealers in the Tampa area, the small, boutique shop specializes in Steinway and Hailun grand and upright pianos.

The store also offers restored, early 20th century pianos, with relics built as far back as 1904.

For the Land O’ Lakes resident, the new store is a labor of love — and a dream come true.

As a young boy growing up in New York, Pratt had a curiosity about the acoustic, stringed musical instrument. Though his family never owned a piano, he always made an effort to bang on some of the 88 keys whenever he visited friends’ houses.

“I didn’t really know much about what a piano was,” Pratt said. “I would just hit the key…and I would just hear that sound in the air, and it’s like: ‘What a unique noise.’”

He added: “I was just in love with playing it, creating music, creating something — a sound from nothing.”

As he grew older, his fascination didn’t waver.

Upon graduating from New York City’s Columbia University, Pratt owned a synthesizer and a digital piano. He eventually worked his way up to an upright piano, and then a 7-foot Kawai grand.

He moved to Tampa in 2003.

That’s when Pratt began collecting used Steinway pianos.

He would have the instruments refurbished, and sell to customers nationwide through eBay.

Meanwhile, he searched far and wide for “unloved” pianos to fix up.

The hobby, Pratt said, proved “very rewarding.”

“I love helping people,” Pratt said. “I help one family get rid of an instrument that they had no use for, and I help get it to another family who loved it and wanted to start the joy of music.”

Over the course of a decade, his side business outgrew his house.

Michael Pratt also sells restored and refurbished pianos from the 20th century.

Pianos could be found in just about every part in the downstairs of Pratt’s home. To his wife’s chagrin, Pratt placed them in the living room, the dining room and even in the garage.

“When I put another upright in the family room — next to the TV — that’s when my wife was like, ‘What are you doing?’”

That’s when the idea for opening a local piano store was born.

“My wife was going to throw me out,” he said, jokingly.

Pratt initially figured he would just use the Lutz storefront to stock his excess pianos, alongside 14 new Hailun models.

He has plans of grandeur in mind, however.

The storeowner dreams the showroom will become a hangout amongst other piano lovers in the neighborhood.

“I want the piano players in this area to have a resource,” he said. “We can congregate, we can talk; they can play some amazing pianos, and we can just have an amazing time.”

He continued: “At some point, I’d like to have concerts here — try and get 50 people sitting down and listening to a top quality piano player.”

Pratt, too, hopes the store will serve as a springboard for reviving youth music education. In fact, he’s already designated three back rooms for piano lessons.

“The idea is to offer a place for local piano teachers to one day teach local students,” he said. “I believe that kids in the neighborhood should learn music; I think it’s been dying out.”

He added: “Music is…just an important part of life, and to see classical music and stuff fading — I just want to bring it back somehow.”

Despite a hectic schedule that includes a full-time career in the health care industry, Pratt still makes an effort to play the keys everyday.

Though, he admits he’s “not very good.”

“I play just for the enjoyment,” Pratt said. “In fact, I think my 8-year-old has surpassed me; I hear him playing Christmas songs, and I feel like, ‘Oh, my goodness, he’s better than I am.’”

Pratt’s preferred music of choice — anything classical.

He noted he has a particular appreciation for compositions by Johann Sebastian Bach and Ludwig van Beethoven.

“That’s music,” he said. “You hear it, and it just sounds interesting; more so than the current popular music that’s out there that’s three chords — that’s got its place, too.”

Yet, Pratt’s also a fan of more contemporary 20th century composers, like Michael Feinstein, George Gershwin, Irving Berlin, Cole Porter and Rodgers & Hammerstein.

“I fell in love with that kind of music,” he said.

To Pratt, all acoustic pianos are “living instruments.”

Two identical models, for example, can have a “completely different tone and pitch,” Pratt said.

It’s another reason he remains enamored by them.

“It has its own character; every one has a unique personality,” he said. “They’re just gorgeous instruments.”

Picarzo Pianos is open for daily appointments between 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. Regular store hours are Wednesdays from 5:30 p.m. to 8 p.m., and Saturdays from 11:30 a.m. to 2 p.m.

For more information, visit Picarzo.com, or call (813) 586-3320.

Published January 4, 2017

State college clears the air – of smoke

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The campuses of Pasco-Hernando State College will become smoke-free and tobacco-free zones effective Aug. 14, 2017.

The college’s District Board of Trustees voted unanimously on Nov. 15 to expand an existing policy that prohibits smoking in college buildings and “workplace” areas, but allows smoking in designated areas.

That means smoking and other forms of tobacco will be banned entirely on the college’s campuses, said Courtney Boettcher, assistant director of marketing and communications at PHSC.

The no-smoking, no-tobacco rule will apply to cigarettes, cigars, pipes, E-cigarettes and any vaporizing devices, such as hookah pipes. Snuff and chewing tobacco also will be prohibited. The rule applies to students, faculty, visitors, vendors and others who come on campus.

Trustees approved the campus-wide ban “to promote the health and wellness of its students and employees, as well as a safe, comfortable environment for all who work, study, conduct business, or visit the college,” according to college documents.

The coverage area includes all properties leased and owned by the college. The college’s fleet of vehicles also will be smoke-free and tobacco-free, whether on or off campus.

The ban goes along with a national trend among colleges and universities to create smoke-free and tobacco-free campuses.

Hillsborough Community College also has such a policy, and the University of South Florida adopted a no smoking policy in January 2016.

In 2011, there were more than 580 smoke-free colleges and universities in the nation, according to the Association for Nonsmokers Rights.

As of October 2016, the nonprofit reported more than 1,700 schools with smoking and tobacco bans.

About 1,400 of that total includes schools that also ban tobacco use of any kind, and more than 1,200 that ban E-cigarettes.

Officials at PHSC will help ease people into the new policy.

During the transition, an ad hoc committee of students, faculty, staff and administrators will help spread the word on the tougher policy.

Free smoking cessation programs also will be available before and after the transition for students, faculty, staff members and other employees.

Published January 4, 2017

Residents pitch in to get rid of hazardous waste

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Pasco County residents unloaded an impressive 27 tons of hazardous waste during the county’s annual Household Hazardous Waste Collection Initiative, according to a news release from Pasco County.

County employees counted more than 570 cars and trucks as residents delivered hazardous waste for disposal during the annual Household Hazardous Waste Collection Initiative.
(Photos courtesy of Pasco County)

It was the most successful mobile hazardous waste collection event Charles Ryburn can recall in his six years as the county’s environmental manager.

The chemical collection total nearly doubled from 2015, reported Ryburn in a written statement.

“Waste reduction, pollution prevention and removing chemicals from the solid waste stream are critical, and Pasco County residents are helping make that happen,” Ryburn said.

Residents dropped off more than 13,000 pounds of latex paint for the annual Household Hazardous Waste Collection Initiative for 2016.

Nearly 570 cars and trucks pulled into the parking lot of the West Pasco Government Center in New Port Richey on Dec. 3 to drop off hazardous waste.

The following is a list of items disposed:

  • 13,266 pounds of latex paint
  • 8,211 pounds of household chemicals
  • 115 lead acid batteries
  • 450 pounds of household batteries
  • 33 propane tanks
  • 275 gallons of used oil, antifreeze and gasoline
  • 250 mercury-containing lamps
  • 23,667 pounds of electronics recycling

Pasco County staff manages and operates two hazardous household waste centers for the safe handling, processing, and proper disposal of all wastes.

Hazardous waste brought to the centers by county residents are either recycled or sent out to a permitted hazardous waste management facility for treatment.

For more information, call (813) 929-2755, ext. 6896, or visit PascoCountyFl.net.

Published January 4, 2017

 

2016 marked by rapid growth, touching moments

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The national election captured headlines and attention, but 2016 was an eventful year in many other ways, as well, across The Laker/Lutz News coverage area.

The big story is the region’s growth.

Eighty-eight-year-old Angel Torres, center, a veteran from Puerto Rico and a resident of the Baldomero Lopez State Veterans Nursing Home, is being positioned to have his photograph taken by Mark Fosket, of Valrico, during the ‘Honor Flight’ ceremony at the nursing home. Gabrielle Perrella, a volunteer from Baltimore, Maryland, who is dressed in a uniform costume, posed with each veteran for their portrait.
(File Photos)

New houses are popping up all over the place, with developments such as Long Lake Ranch, Estancia at Wiregrass Ranch, Connerton, Bexley and Asturia, just some of the residential communities beckoning to buyers.

Pasco County is on the move in many other ways, too.

A futuristic, technology-based network of communities across 7,800 acres in northeast Pasco County is in its planning stages.

Raymond James Financial has closed on a deal to buy 65 acres across from Pasco-Hernando State College’s Porter Campus at Wiregrass Ranch, with the financial services giant expected to have hundreds of workers in Pasco County at some point.

Florida Hospital Center Ice — a new 150,000-square-foot hockey arena and sports complex — is nearly set to open, and that is expected to be a big draw for both tournaments and tourists.

And then, there’s the commercial development that continues to transform the State Road 54/State Road 56 corridor, especially near the Interstate75/State Road 56 interchange.

Just in that vicinity alone, there’s Tampa Premium Outlets, Longhorn Steakhouse, BJ’s Restaurant & Brewhouse, Cheddar’s Scratch Kitchen, Chick-fil-A and Culver’s.

A 186,000-square-foot Costco Wholesale is expected to open in February, with an estimated 200 employees.

A historic photo of a baptism of members of the First Baptist Church of Lutz.

Just across the road, on the north side of State Road 56, Cypress Creek Town Center — another shopping development — is being built.

There are also plans for a new cinema, grocery store, apartments, shops and restaurants next to The Shops at Wiregrass, off State Road 56.

Of course, all of this growth is compounding traffic problems on area roads — and numerous projects are underway or are expected to begin work in coming years.

Improvements are expected to begin near the I-75/State Road 56 interchange. Wesley Chapel Boulevard is slated to be widened. An extension of State Road 56 is planned between Wesley Chapel and Zephyrhills, and discussion continues about the best solution for reducing congestion at U.S. 41 and State Road 54.

Growth is putting the squeeze on schools, too.

Pasco County Schools can’t keep pace with growing enrollments.

The district opened Wiregrass Elementary School, in Wesley Chapel, in August, to reduce crowding at area schools.

In the coming school year, it plans to open Bexley Elementary and Cypress Creek Middle/High.

Bexley is being built in a new subdivision off State Road 54. Cypress Creek Middle/High is going up on Old Pasco Road.

School board members gave preliminary approval for boundaries for Bexley and Cypress Creek at a contentious public hearing on Dec. 20. A final vote is expected on Jan. 17.

But, school board members and Superintendent Kurt Browning said the new schools fall far short of addressing district needs. They want the Pasco County Commission to require new residential construction to pay higher impact fees to support school construction.

Paramedic John Ward helps Sister Helen Lange blow out the candles that lit up her 103rd birthday cake at a party at Heritage Park in Dade City.

While growth and its ripple effects clearly dominated the news, there were plenty of other notable moments within the region during 2016.

For instance, there were heroics in everyday life.

On June 3, a fire claimed the life of a tiny black Chihuahua named Peanut, but not until after the dog’s persistent barking saved the life of three generations of a Lutz family.

Later that same week, quick actions by a student at Saddlebrook Preparatory School in Wesley Chapel averted potential tragedy at the international boarding school for aspiring golf and tennis players.

A student smelled smoke, investigated, pulled the alarm and help to ensure that all 28 students and two adults got out of the dorm safely.

It took 55 firefighters more than 1 ½ hours to put out the blaze.

This past year also was one of milestones and celebrations.

The First Baptist Church in Lutz celebrated its 75th anniversary, The San Antonio Rattlesnake Festival turned a half-century, Cox Elementary School turned 90 and the Town of St. Leo marked its 125th anniversary.

On a more personal note, Sister Helen Lange, of Dade City, received a surprise cake to mark her 103rd year on Sept. 28 in Dade City, and Nellie and Gain Hughs Bailey Sr., of Lutz, celebrated 70 years of married life on March 31.

There were inspiring moments, too.

Hundreds of people turned out for the “Honor Flight” celebration on Aug. 20, at the Baldomero Lopez State Veterans Home in Land O’ Lakes. The event provided a virtual tour of the nation’s war monuments because these veterans are unable to make the trip to Washington D.C.

The stands were also filled at Ron Allen Field at Gaither High School, in North Tampa, to attend the June 15 vigil to honor Christopher Joseph Sanfeliz, one of 49 people killed during a mass shooting on June 12 at Pulse nightclub in Orlando.

There was the inspiring message, too, from Immaculee Ilibagiza, a survivor of the Rwandan genocide, who spoke at two days of gatherings at St. Timothy Catholic Church in Lutz.

Ilibagiza’s family, friends and other members of her tribe were brutally murdered in Rwanda, but through her faith, she was able to forgive the killers.

Forgiveness, the genocide survivor said, brings freedom.

Published December 28, 2016